17.5 Million American Households are food insecure

Hunger and food insecurity are hidden issues in the United States - unless you are one of the hungry. Although these are recognized as global issues, do you realize odds are that some of your neighbors probably go hungry?

Barbie Izquierdo: Living Through the Insecurity

Barbie Izquierdo was featured in the 2012 documentary, "A Place at the Table," which highlighted her struggle of food insecurity. She shared her story along with what she believes are contributing factors to the issue in an exclusive interview with servingfoodsolutions.com.

Calorie-Dense vs. Nutrient-Dense Foods

Being food insecure can effect one's physical health. Part of the issue is that the food individuals can afford to buy with public assistance money might not contain the nutrition necessary for good health.

Darden Harvest Program Fights Food Waste

The Darden chain of restaurants has been working since 2003 to combat food waste. Utilizing the surplus food from their kitchens, the restaurants have found a way to contribute to surrounding communities.

What is food insecurity?

Food insecurity is the most broadly-used measure of food deprivation in the United States. The USDA defines food insecurity as meaning that “consistent access to adequate foodis limited by a lack of money and other resources at times during the year.”

The Problem

Food insecurity is a complex, sustainable development issue linked to many causes. We take a look at three of the largest contributing factors to food insecurity including economics, location and food waste.

The Consequences

Food insecurity has a multitude of health effects on individuals. From basic nutrition and self-image to human development and the first 1,000 days, we explore a range of physical and mental health effects that food insecure individuals may experience.

The Solutions

Take Action

How can you help fight food insecurity?

Fighting food insecurity requires the active participation of multiple communities. Individuals, restaurants, corporations and assistance programs all have a common goal to help but none of this would be possible without coordinated action.